NFL Power Poll – Week 11

  Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Host Chiefs In Conference Leadership Battle
Brees, Trubisky and Roethlsberger Star in Impressive Wins

Teams of the Week –
    Saints crush Bengals, 51-15
   Steelers bash Panthers, 52-21
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Mitchell Trubisky – Bears     
  Defense – DE Cameron Heyward – Steelers
 
Rookies of Week
    RB Nick Chubb – Browns
    LB Darius Leonard – Colts

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Game of Week #11 – Kansas City Chiefs (9-1) at LA Rams (9-1)  
Rams get a home game with Mexican grass fiasco

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 11

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -9-1 Rams
Rams’ beat the Seahawks. Pumped for the Chiefs.

#2 – 9-1 Chiefs
Chiefs’ cruising behind explosive offense and improving defense.

#3 – 8-1 Saints
Saints’ win their 8^th straight game with another record setting performance by veteran QB Drew Brees.

#4 – 7-3 Patriots
Pats struggled vs tough Titan club lead by ex-player and coach Mike Vrabel.

#5 – 6-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ starting to peat and will go forward without star runner Le’Veon Bell.

#6 – 7-2 Chargers
Chargers are learning how to win the divisional games.

#7 – 6-3 Panthers
Panthers were punched out by Pittsburgh in a huge Thursday night matchup.

#8 – 6-3 Texans
Texans’ are rested for their trip to Washington of divisional leaders.

#9 – 6-3 Bears
The Bears are looking like a playoff club. Host the Vikings with a chance to gain a strong hold on NFC North leadership.

#10 – 5-3-1 Vikings
Vikings travel to Chi town for critical North leadership in the balance.

#11 – 6-3 Redskins
The Redskins host the Texans looking for signature victory of the season.

#12 – 4-5 Eagles
Eagles lost to the staggering Cowboys. Go to New Orleans in a must win situation.

#13 – 4-5 Seahawks
Seahawks host the Packers in a must situation for both clubs playoff hopes.

#14 – 5-4 Titans
The Titans won another big game this time vs the Patriots. Travel to Indy for vital AFC South matchup.

#15 – 4-4-1 Packers
The Packers face a season defining matchup in Seattle on Thursday night.

#16 – 4-5 Cowboys
The Cowboys beat the Eagles to keep alive their NFC playoff hopes.

#17 – 4-5 Falcons
Falcons are still struggling to get the defense together.

#18 – 5-5 Dolphins
Dolphins are floundering in mediocrity.

#19 – 4-5 Colts
Colts won their third straight vs the Jaguars. Host the rising Titans in great matchup.

#20 – 5-4 Bengals
Bengals’ were trashed by the Saints. Go to Baltimore for divisional matchup.

#21 – 4-5 Ravens
Ravens lost their fourth straight game. Get the crumbling Bengals at home this week.

#22 – 3-6-1 Browns
Browns coming off big win vs the Falcons. Bye week before two road games.

#23 – 3-6 Lions
Lions were pounded in Chicago. Maybe last chance at home vs the Panthers to get back into postseason picture.

#24 – 3-6 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lose their five straight in another weak offensive performance.

#25- 3-6 Broncos
Broncos face heavy AFC schedule down the stretch.

#26 – 3-6 Bucs
Bucs face the Giants after another poor effort.

#27 – 3-7 Bills
Bills exploded against the Jets. Get their bye week to celebrate.

#28 – 3-7 Jets
Jets’ were embarrassed by the Bills and third string QB Matt Barkley.

#29 – 2-7 Giants
The Giants looking for two game winning streak with the Bucs coming to town.

#30 – 2-8 49ers
The 49ers fell to the Giants Monday night. Bye week to prepare for stretch.

#31 – 2-7 Cardinals
Cardinals host the Raiders in the Basement bowl.

#32 – 1-8 Raiders
The Raiders pathetic offense has hit new lows in recent weeks.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

NFL Power Poll – Week 10

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Taste First Defeat to The Saints
Brady Outshines Rodgers in Patriots 31-17 Victory

Teams of the Week –
    Saints over Rams, 45-35
Steelers beat Ravens, 23-16
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Drew Brees – Saints     
  Defense – DE Danielle Hunter – Vikings
 
Rookies of Week
    WR Calvin Ridley – Falcons
    LB Roquan Smith – Bears

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Games of Week #10 – Seattle Seahawks (4-4) at LA Rams (8-1)  
Rams host their divisional rival Seahawks, that may decide NFC West title.

 Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 10

NFL Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 1 -8-1 Rams
Rams’ suffered their first loss to the Saints. The ‘72 Dolphins party time.

#2 – 8-1 Chiefs
Chiefs’ offense is the most explosive in the game.

#3 – 7-1 Saints
Saints’ are peaking now with their seven-game winning streak. QB Drew Brees is playing like an MVP candidate.

#4 – 7-2 Patriots
Pats took care of the Packers behind another classic performance by QB Tom Brady.

#5 – 6-2 Chargers
Chargers beat the Seahawks in Seattle in a statement performance.

#6 – 6-2 Panthers
Panthers are hot and go to Pittsburgh in a huge Thursday night matchup.

#7 – 5-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ gained revenge to their earlier loss to Ravens with big victory in Baltimore.

#8 – 6-3 Texans
Texans’ toughed a difficult win in Denver. Get their bye week to gear up for South division run.

#9 – 5-3-1 Vikings
Vikings beat the Lions to go into their bye on a divisional victory.

#10 – 5-3 Bengals
Bengals’ host the Saints coming off their bye in a huge interconference matchup.

#11 – 4-4 Eagles
Eagles host the staggering Cowboys in a key NFC East contest.

#12 – 5-3 Redskins
The Redskins were smoked by the Falcons in their poorest defensive performance of the season.

#13 – 4-4 Seahawks
Seahawks travel to LA to face divisional leader the Rams in a must situation for their playoff hopes.

#14 – 5-3 Bears
The Bears host the faltering Lions with a chance to gain a strong hold on NFC North leadership.

#15 – 5-4 Dolphins
Dolphins go to Titletown to face the desperate Packers.

#16 – 3-4-1 Packers
The Packers host the Fish in a must win situation to keep alive their slim playoff hopes.

#17 – 4-4 Falcons
Falcons offense is carrying this club in hopes of getting healthy on the defensive side of the ball soon.

#18 – 4-5 Ravens
Ravens lost their third straight game. Much needed bye this week before second half schedule.

#19 – 4-4 Titans
The Titans won a big game vs Cowboys. Host the Patriots which may determine any postseason hopes.

#20 – 3-5 Colts
Colts are coming off their bye week and host the Jaguars that will determine any playoff hopes.

#21 – 3-5 Lions
Lions go to Chicago in a desperate situation after another disappointing performance vs the Vikings.

#22 – 3-5 Cowboys
The Cowboys were pounded by the Titans. Face Eagles in a must win situation for any NFC playoff hopes.

#23 – 3-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ are coming off their bye week and travel to Indy for key divisional matchup.

#24- 3-6 Broncos
Broncos are on their bye week after a disappointing loss especially by their offense.

#25 – 3-5 Bucs
Bucs host the Skins in a must win spot after another poor defensive effort.

#26 – 3-6 Jets
Jets’ failed in a big spot in Miami with rookie QB Sam Darnold throwing four picks.

#27 – 2-6-1 Browns
Browns defense gave up almost 500 yards in their loss to the Chiefs.

#28 – 2-7 49ers
The 49ers beat the Raiders and look to extend it to a two game stretch with the Giants coming in Monday night.

#29 – 2-6 Cardinals
Cardinals go to KC to face Patrick Mahomes. They had two weeks to prepare.

#30 – 2-7 Bills
Bills were trashed by the Bears. Go to MetLife to face the equally struggling Jets.

#31 – 1-7 Giants
The Giants could not lose last week during the bye week. Go to San Fran for a bottom feeder matchup.

#32 – 1-7 Raiders
Da Raiders were taken to the wood shed by the 49ers in last, 34-3. Enough said.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

 Maxwell Football Club Announces Chuck Bednarik Award 2018 Semifinalists

Five teams, Alabama, Clemson, LSU, Mississippi St and Washington list two Defensive Players on the Semifinalist List

MSU’s Simmons and Sweat Named Bednarik Award Semifinalists
Mississippi State’s Jeffery Simmons and Montez Sweat, the best defensive line duo in America, were both named semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award on Monday by the Maxwell Football Club.

The Bednarik Award is presented annually to the college defensive player of the year by the Maxwell Football Club. The field of contenders is comprised of 20 candidates, featuring a representative from every Power 5 conference. Simmons is one of two returners from last year’s semifinal list. MSU is one of just five schools with multiple semifinalists, joining Alabama, Clemson, LSU and Washington.

College football’s most feared pass rusher, Sweat is tied for second in the Southeastern Conference and seventh in the Football Bowl Subdivision with 8.5 sacks through eight games this season. He has also racked up 11 tackles for loss, which is the third-most in the SEC. No player in the Power 5 has tallied more sacks since the start of the 2017 season than Sweat, who has 19 in his 21 career games played in that span. Sweat, who led the SEC in sacks with 10.5 in 2017, is looking to become the second player since at least 2002 to lead the league in sacks back-to-back years.

A dominant interior force, Simmons leads all SEC defensive linemen with 39 tackles this season and ranks tied for fourth in the conference with 9.5 tackles for loss. Simmons has recorded 18 stops and 16 total pressures, including 12 hurries. In the 21 games played together, the pair of first-round NFL prospects have combined for 48 tackles for loss (28 vs. SEC). Sweat has 26.5, while Simmons has 21.5 (Simmons has 25.0 in his career). The tandem has also combined for 24 sacks (16.5 vs. SEC) as Sweat has 19 and Simmons has five.

Frank Coyle lists  12 of the 20 junior and senior defenders on his Big Board for the NFL Draft 2019.

Semifinalist voting for the award will  close on Nov. 18. Three finalists will be announced on Nov. 19 and a second round of voting will take place at that time. Eligible voters include Maxwell Football Club members, NCAA head football coaches, sports information directors and selected national media.

The winner will be announced as part of the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show presented by Gildan which will be broadcast live on ESPN on Dec. 6. The formal presentation of these awards will be made at the Maxwell Football Club’s Awards Dinner on Friday, March 8, 2019 at the Tropicana Casino & Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

2018 Chuck Bednarik Award Semifinalists

DT Quinnen Williams, Alabama
S Deionte Thompson, Alabama
DE Zach Allen, Boston College
DE Clelin Ferrell, Clemson
DT Christian Wilkins, Clemson
DE Jachai Polite, Florida
DE Brian Burns, Florida State
CB Deandre Baker, Georgia
DT Ed Oliver, Houston
LB Josh Allen, Kentucky
DE Jaylon Ferguson, Louisiana Tech
S Grant Delpit, LSU
LB Devin White, LSU
DE Chase Winovich, Michigan
DE Montez Sweat, Mississippi State
NG Jeffery Simmons, Mississippi State
NG Jerry Tillery, Notre Dame
DT Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State
CB Byron Murphy, Washington
LB Ben Burr-Kirven, Washington

Frank Coyle is a longtime member of the FWAA and a voter for the Heisman Trophy, Outland Trophy, Bronko Nagurski, Jim Thorpe, Fred Biletnikoff and Eddie Robinson awards annually for 25 years.

NFL Power Poll – Week 9

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll –
Rams Face Saints in Key NFC Matchup
Brady vs Rodgers in Sunday Night Classic

Teams of the Week –
    Saints over Vikings, 30-20
Rams over Packers, 29-27
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – RB Todd Gurley – Rams     
  Defense – DE JJ Watt – Texans
 
Rookies of Week
    QB – Josh Rosen – Cards
    DE – Marcus Davenport – Saints

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Games of Week #9 –

LA Rams (8-0) at New Orleans Saints (6-1)  
Hot Saints host the unbeaten Rams in major NFC Matchup
LA Chargers (5-2) at Seattle Seahawks (4-3)
Vital game for both West divisional playoff contenders

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -8-0 Rams
Rams’ learning how to win tight games weekly in crunch time. Face acid test in New Orleans.

#2 – 7-1 Chiefs
Chiefs go to Cleveland for a tougher matchup that many think.

#3 – 7-1 Saints
Saints’ won another tough road test in Minnesota. Host the unbeaten Rams this week which determines NFC leadership.

#4 – 6-2 Patriots
Pats host the Packers in a classic matchup of QBs, Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers.

#5 – 5-2 Chargers
Chargers face the 12^th man in Seattle in one of the best games of the week.

#6 – 5-2 Panthers
Panthers are coming off victories over the Eagles and Ravens. Host the Bucs Sunday.

#7 – 4-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ travel to Baltimore for their annual bloodbath with the Ravens.

#8 – 5-3 Texans
Texans’ are quietly gaining momentum. Go to Mile High for key AFC matchup.

#9 – 4-3-1 Vikings
Vikings overrated defense came up short again in a big spot vs the Saints.

#10 – 5-3 Bengals
Bengals’ edged out a win vs the Bucs. Bye week before important 2^nd half run.

#11 – 4-4 Ravens
Ravens host the Steelers this week in maybe the best rivalry in the league.

#12 – 5-2 Redskins
The Redskins are learning how to win. Host Atlanta in one of the interesting matchups this week.

#13 – 4-3 Seahawks
Seahawks face the tough two LA teams over the next two weeks that may determine their playoff hopes.

#14 – 4-4 Eagles
Eagles get their bye and look to make a run with a heavy NFC schedule over the 2nd half.

#15 – 3-3-1 Packers
The Packers keep coming up short despite QB Aaron Rodger’s heroics.

#16 – 4-3 Bears
The Bears travel to Buffalo with a chance to stay atop the competitive NFC North.

#17 – 3-4 Lions
Lions face two North road games with Vikings and Bears that will determine if they are contenders or pretenders.

#18 – 4-4 Dolphins
Dolphins host the Jets in almost a must win contest to stay in playoff hunt.

#19 – 3-4 Falcons
Falcons coming off their bye with two road games in Washington and Cleveland on the schedule.

#20 – 3-4 Cowboys
The Cowboys are coming off their bye and must get to .500 to get into NFC playoff contention.

#21 – 3-4 Titans
The Titans are rested for their trip to Big D which may determine the fate of both clubs.

#22 – 3-5 Jaguars
Jaguars’ lost again this time to the Eagles. Get their bye week to regroup for stretch run.

#23- 3-5 Broncos
Broncos are coming up short in big spots. Host the hot Texans in a must win situation to stay alive in AFC playoffs.

#24 – 3-4 Bucs
Bucs go back to vet QB Fitzpatrick after an extended horrible streak by QB Jameis Winston.

#25 – 2-5-1 Browns
Browns finally fired HC Hue Jackson after a 3-37-1 stretch, one of the worst in NFL history.

#26 – 3-5 Jets
Jets’ travel to Miami after a weak performance in Chicago.

#27 – 3-5 Colts
Colts beat the Raiders behind another strong Andrew Luck performance.

#28 – 2-6 Bills
Bills change to backup QB Nate Peterman while hoping for rookie QB Josh Allen’s return.

#29 – 2-6 Cardinals
Cardinals edged out a victory over the 49ers. Get their bye this week.

#30 – 1-7 Giants
The Giants have just begun a complete rebuild. Roster lacks talent and depth after years of poor draft classes by ex GM Jerry Reese.

#31 – 1-7 49ers
The 49ers are favorite in this ‘Bay of Pigs’ classic.

#32 – 1-7 Raiders
Da Raiders were toasted by the Colts in their last embarrassment.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

NFL Power Poll – Week 8

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams Host Packers in NFC Matchup
Brees leads the Saints’ to Win over the Ravens

Teams of the Week – Saints over Ravens, 24-23
Upset of the Week – Texans over Jaguars, 20-7

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Cam Newton – Panthers     
Defense – DT Aaron Donald – Rams

Rookies of Week
RB Kerryon Johnson – Lions
DT Da’Ron Payne – Redskins

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Go to   www.RedCross.org  to donate money or time
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Games of Week #7 – New Orleans Saints (5-1) at Minnesota Vikings (4-2-1)
Saints continue to face tough road matchups

Draft Insiders’ NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -7-0 Rams
Rams’ highly rated defense preps for Aaron Rodgers coming to town.

#2 – 6-1 Chiefs
Chiefs are probably most exciting club in the league, but better find a defense to beat playoff clubs.

#3 – 5-1 Saints
Saints’ won a tough road test in Baltimore, travel to Minnesota this week.

#4 – 5-2 Patriots
Pats just know how to win with the game on the line behind Tom Terrific.

#5 – 5-2 Chargers
Chargers get their bye week after winning in London vs the Titans.

#6 – 4-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ rested for hosting the Browns in a tough AFC North contest.

#7 – 4-2-1 Vikings
Vikings are in the spotlight Sunday night hosting the talented Saints.

#8 – 4-2 Panthers
Panthers are coming off a victory in Philly. Host Ravens Sunday.

#9 – 4-3 Ravens
Ravens continue a difficult stretch in schedule with trip to Carolina.

#10 – 4-3 Bengals
Bengals’ failed to show up in Kansas City. Host the Bucs this week.

#11 – 3-2-1 Packers
The Packers are rested for feature game vs the Rams.

#12- 3-4 Eagles
Eagles travel to London for Jaguar matchup in hopes of getting back to .500.

#13 – 4-3 Texans
Texans’ beat the Jaguars and look to step up in AFC South.

#14 – 3-3 Bears
The Bears host the Jets and look to keep pace in the balanced NFC North.

#15 – 3-3 Lions
Lions offense is hitting stride at midseason. Host the Seahawks in key contest.

#16 – 4-2 Redskins
The Redskins hoping to extend winning streak with trip to the Giants Sunday.

#17 – 3-3 Seahawks
Seahawks travel to Detroit for an interesting NFC matchup with longterm playoff ramifications.

#17 – 4-3 Dolphins
Dolphins defense was smoked by the Lions. Face the rising Texans Thursday night.

#18 – 3-4 Jaguars
Jaguars’ offense continues to struggle and it is not all Blake Bortles fault.

#19 – 3-4 Falcons
Falcons offense will have to carry this club with battered D working with limited starters.

#21 – 3-4 Cowboys
The Cowboys lost a close one to the Redskins. Adding wideout Amani Cooper is an improvement during bye week.

#22 – 3-4 Titans
The Titans get their bye week to prepare for 2nd half drive.

#23- 3-4 Broncos
Broncos face a key West matchup with tough road game in Kansas City.

#24 – 3-3 Bucs
Bucs win in OT vs the Browns. Go to Cinny in a key matchup to get to contension.

#25 – 2-4-1 Browns
Browns lost another road game in their 4th overtime game this season.

#26 – 3-4 Jets
Jets’ travel to Chitown in a winnable matchup for any longshot playoff hopes.

#27 – 2-5 Colts
Colts beat the Bills behind Andrew Luck’s 4 TD passes. Travel to Oakland hoping to extend winning streak.

#28 – 2-5 Bills
Bills struggling with backup QB Derek Anderson. Rookie QB Josh Allen is still injured.

#29 – 1-6 Giants
The Giants failed again in big spot vs Falcons. Host the East leading Redskins. Trading veterans this week.

#30 – 1-6 Cardinals
Cardinals host the 49ers in a game that should have a major bearing on the early NFL Draft 2019 selections.

#31 – 1-6 49ers
The 49ers are going through growing pains this season.

#32 – 1-6 Raiders
Da Raiders are rested for visit from the Colts in an equal matchup.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

   NFL Power Poll – Week 7

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

Draft Insiders’ NFL Power Poll –
Rams Stand Alone as NFL’s Unbeaten Team
Patriots’ QB Tom Brady Outduels Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes In Sunday Night Classic

Team of the Week – Patriots over Chiefs 43-40
Upset of the Week – Cowboys over Jaguars 40-7

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Tom Brady – Patriots     
  Defense – LB Za’Darious Smith – Ravens

Rookies of Week
RB Saquon Barkley – Giants
LB Bradley Chubb – Broncos

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Go to   www.RedCross.org  to donate money or time
DraftInsiders.com supports all Emergency Relief efforts worldwide along with Breast Cancer for over 25 years.

Games of Week #7 – New Orleans Saints (4-1) at Baltimore Ravens (4-2)
Saints face acid test with trip to play the tough Ravens

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -6-0 Rams
Rams’ are the only undefeated club in the league.

#2 – 5-1 Chiefs
Chiefs lost a heartbreaker to the Patriots despite Patrick Mahome’s dramatics.

#3 – 4-1 Saints
Saints’ are rested for tough road test in Baltimore.

#4 – 4-2 Patriots
Pats may be the best with the game on the line with Tom Terrific.

#5 – 4-2 Ravens
Ravens beat up the tough Titans on the road. Wait for Saints to challenge their physical D.

#6 – 4-2 Chargers
Chargers travel to London to face the battered Titans.

#7 – 3-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ owned the Bengals for their eighth straight victory over their AFC North rival.

#8- 3-3 Eagles
Eagles pounded the Giants. Host the Panthers this Sunday.

#9 – 4-2 Bengals
Bengals’ go to Kansas City after tough loss to the Steelers.

#10 – 3-2-1 Vikings
Vikings hoping to keep winning streak alive with trip east to face the Jets.

#11 – 3-3 Jaguars
Jaguars’ offense struggling without Fournette. Face hungry Texans club at home in key South matchup.

#12 – 3-2 Panthers
Panthers travel to Philly in another important NFC matchup.

#12 – 3-2 Bears
The Bears lost to Dolphins in a tough overtime game. Host the Patriots in difficult matchup.

#14 – 4-2 Dolphins
Dolphins are on a three game winning streak with the rested Lions coming to town.

#15 – 3-2-1 Packers
The Packers beat the 49ers Monday night on Aaron Rodgers late game dramatics. Get bye this week.

#16 – 3-3 Texans
Texans’ edged the Bills. Travel to Jacksonville for a critical midseason AFC South matchup for division leadership.

#17 – 3-3 Seahawks
Seahawks punched the Raiders in London. Bye week to regroup for 2^nd half playoff push.

#18 – 3-3 Cowboys
The Cowboys jumped the Jaguars in their best effort of the season. Face archrival Skins in key NFC East contest.

#19 – 3-3 Titans
The Titans were taken to the woodshed by the Ravens. Go to London for Charger matchup.

#20 – 3-2 Redskins
The Redskins have been inconsistent, but beat the Panthers. Cowboys come to town this week in an important East matchup.

#21- 2-4 Broncos
Broncos lost a close one to the Rams. Need a victory in the desert vs the Cards to stay in the playoff chase.

#22 – 2-3-1 Browns
Browns were outclassed by the Chargers. Travel to Tampa in a winnable matchup.

#23 – 3-3 Jets
Jets’ riding the hot hand of rookie QB Sam Darnold. Face the highly regarded Vikings at home in hopes to get into the playoff conversation.

#24 – 2-4 Falcons
Falcons edged the Bucs last week. Get the woeful Giants at home Monday night.

#25 – 2-3 Lions
Lions rested for their trip to Miami to get to the .500 mark. Look to get into playoff race in the balanced NFC North.

#26 – 2-3 Bucs
Bucs fire DC Mike Smith. Browns come in for a key matchup to get to .500.

#27 – 2-4 Bills
Bills lose to Houston. Go with backup QB Derek Anderson with rookie Josh Allen injured.

#28 – 1-5 Colts
Colts score points, but have one of the worst defenses in the league. Host the Bills in a basement bowl.

#29 – 1-5 Giants
The pathetic Giants were toasted by the Eagles. Get more national exposure with Monday night road game in Atlanta.

30 – 1-5 Cardinals
Cardinals will go through their baptism season with rookie QB Josh Rosen in hopes to build a new foundation.

#31 – 1-5 49ers
Like we said in August – ‘The 49ers are the most overrated team in the league.’

#32 – 1-5 Raiders
Da Raiders certainly need some ‘Gruden Grinders.’

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Draft Insiders’ Rookie Spotlight – RB Saquon Barkley – Giants

Frank Coyle

Each week Draft Insiders’ will do a Rookie spotlight and post their Scouting Report from our NFL Draft 2018 Yearbook. Scouting Reports are written from the fall into March annually.

Week 6 showcased the top rookie running back Saquon Barkley of the Giants. He has started since day one and been one of the few bright spots during the GMen’s dismal 1-5 season.

He brings the most completed back to the game in years and new energy and life to a lackluster offense. Despite a weak offensive line, Barkley has rushed for 428 yards for a 5.2 yard average along with 40 receptions for 373 yards and 6 TDs. He has been dramatic and impressive despite special attention on virtually every play. His numbers are on pace for both a 1000 yard rushing and receiving performance which would be a first in NFL annals.

He has uncanny instincts with quick decision making and footwork that allows him to move and create situations and extend plays. He displayed rare composure in a pressure packed situation Thursday night vs the Eagles where he displayed big play ability as both a runner and receiver.
He was the #1 running back selected from a very deep class and the #2 overall choice behind only QB Baker Mayfield. He gives Giant fans hope during a frustrating period where the changing roster is in

We compared him to LaDainian Tomlinson in talent, mobility and leadership which emerged dramatically over his Penn St career and postseason prior to the NFL Draft 2018.
 
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2018 Running Backs Class – Grade: A
      Positional Overview:
 This year’s running back position is an excellent group with a super blue-chip junior in Saquon Barkley at the top of the class. Barkley is a premier NFL feature back who can be an elite pro player early in his career. We rank him higher than Zeke Elliott or Leonard Fournette both of whom were difference makers from their first season.

Running Backs
1 Saquon Barkley #26 – Penn St          6-0       230 – Sp. 4.45              
        Player Comparison: LaDainian Tomlinson                  Rating 95       
Dynamic powerful junior is the most physically gifted back to arrive in the NFL since Adrian Peterson. Strong compact frame with very quick feet and the explosive burst to go the distance from anywhere on the field. The complete package to become a top NFL feature back with rare skills to be an instant impact three down player as a rookie. Difference maker the past two seasons at Penn St. and produced impressive numbers despite weekly special attention in the Big Ten. Earned first team Big Ten his final two seasons. Great team leader with smarts, instincts and leadership. Possesses an ideal NFL body with a well-developed muscular frame with the natural ability to drop his pads and square up when attacking the line. Shows great lateral quickness with the burst to get outside consistently and go the distance. Displays the initial burst to hit an opening with the cutting skills of a smaller back and the power to break and bounce off tacklers. Very good lower body strength (squats 600 lbs.+) to run through tacklers and carry a big load weekly. As a runner, shows natural vision and balance with the power and toughness to consistently get the most of each attempt. Reads his initial blocks very well with a feel for finding an opening with the speed to hit a hole and run away from defenders. Patient runner allows play to unfold with the burst to create. Faced eight in a box often and put up huge numbers vs Big Ten talent in key games with conference and national impact. Shows the power to run through creases with rare lateral quickness and long speed to stick-and-go out of his cuts. Displays the patience to follow blockers and the ability to shift his weight very well and string multiple moves together. Soft hands as a receiver out of the backfield and capable of a big play in space where his speed and power are a dangerous combination. Strong hands to protect the ball well. Needs work on his blocking especially in blitz situations. Shows the toughness and athleticism to face up with backers, but needs the practice time to progress in that key area. Good route running and defense recognition. Elite combination of speed and power to provide early impact as a pro feature runner. Very strong lower body with good straight arm and can sink his hips and explode to come downhill. Extremely tough to tackle inline or in space. Sets up cut-back lanes exceptionally well with the body lean to get much yardage after contact.

The Numbers:  As a junior, he started 13 games and rushed for 1271 yards on 217 carries for a 5.9 average and 18 TDs. He added 54 receptions for 632 yards and 3 TDs. For the 2016 season, he started 14 games and rushed for 1496 yards on 272 attempts for 5.5 yard average and 18 TDs. He added 28 receptions for 402 yards and 4 TDs. As a freshman in 2015, he rushed for 1076 yards on 182 carries for a 5.9 average and 7 TDs and added 20 receptions for 161 yards and 1 TD. Over his career, he rushed for 3843 yards on 671 attempts for a fine 5.7 average and 43 TDs plus totaled 102 receptions for 1195 yards and 8 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 6’ and 233 lbs. and ran a 4.40 time. He did 29 reps in the lifting with a 41” VL and a 4.24 shuttle. In the mold of premier breakaway power backs like LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson and Zeke Elliott in body type and style, he is similar yet superior to Todd Gurley with the speed and power to be the best in the game. Major early impact weapon.

The Skinny:  Fast physical downhill thumper with the long speed to be a game breaker. Rookie impact feature back who becomes his own blocker. Rookie three down starter with developed receiving skills. As a blocker, he shows quick reactions and toughness to face up to use his strong frame and agility, though needs to prove he can square off with blitz defenders. Natural runner and early difference maker. Faced NFL caliber defenders weekly and carried a full load with great production despite special attention. Very well rounded back and excellent skill set to be an impact player. Super blue-chip athlete and my #1 prospect since September 2017 with no need to change that grade. Top 2 prospect with elite talent to be among the league’s best runners immediately.
           Draft Projection: 1st Round – Top 2                                       
 

NFL Calendar 2019

  Thru the NFL Draft 2019

February 3: Super Bowl – Atlanta, Georgia

February 19 – First day for clubs to designate Franchise or        Transition Players.

Feb 26-March 4 – NFL Combine Timing & Testing, Lucas Stadium, Indianapolis, In.

March 4 – Prior to 4:00 p.m., NY time, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.

March 11-13 – During the period beginning at 12 noon, New York time, on March 12th and ending at 3:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14th, clubs are permitted to contact, and enter into contract negotiations with, the certified agents of players who will become Unrestricted Free Agents upon the expiration of their 2018 player contracts at 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 14. However, a contract cannot be executed with a new club until 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 14.

During the above two-day negotiating period, no direct contact is permitted between a prospective unrestricted free agent and any employee or representative of a club, other than the player’s current club.

March 13 – The 2019 League Year and Free Agency period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.

The first day of the 2019 League Year will end at 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14. Clubs will receive a personnel notice that will include all transactions submitted to the League office during the period between 4:00 p.m., New York time, and 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 14.

March 13 – Trading period for 2019 begins at 4:00 p.m. est time, after expiration of all 2017 contracts.

March 24-27 – Annual League Meeting, Orlando, Florida.

April 1 – Clubs that hired a new head coach after the end of the 2018 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.

April 15 – Clubs with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.

April 19 – Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign Offer Sheets.

April 24 – Deadline for prior club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.

                                 **** NFL Draft 2019 – April 25-27 ****

                        Thursday through Saturday – Nashville will host NFL Draft 2019

March 13: NFL Free Agency & Trade Period starts
NFL league year, includes start of free agency and trading period begins at 4 pm ET

March 24-27 – Annual Owners Meeting, Phoenix, Az.

April 25-27 – NFL Draft 2019 – Nashville, Tennessee

NFL Power Poll – Week 6

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams and Chiefs Head Conferences
Saints’ QB Drew Brees and Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes Hot Early Starts

Teams of the Week – Chiefs over Jaguars 30-14
Upset of the Week – Browns over Ravens 12-9 OT

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Drew Brees – Saints   
Defense – LB Melvin Ingram – Chargers

Rookies of Week
  RB Sony Michelle – Patriots
  CB Denzel Ward – Browns

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Games of Week #6 – Kansas City Chiefs (5-0) at New England Patriots (3-2)
Chiefs look to take early AFC leadership

Draft Insiders‘ – NFL Power Poll

NFL Ranking /Record /Team
#1 -5-0 Rams
Rams’ are focused for run at the title.

#2 – 5-0 Chiefs
Chiefs continue to putt up big numbers vs top defenses.

#3 – 4-1 Saints
Saints’ Drew Brees gives them a chance to get to the Show.

#4 – 4-1 Bengals
Bengals host the Steelers with AFC North leadership in the balance.

#5 – 3-2 Patriots
Pats are well rested for the Chiefs to come to town.

#6 – 3-2 Jaguars
Jaguars’ offense will have to step up without Fournette.

#7- 2-3 Eagles
Eagles lose to the Vikings, but back vs weak East opponents in the Giants.

#8 – 3-1 Panthers
Panthers travel to the Capital in an important NFC matchup.

#9 – 3-2 Ravens
Ravens face the tough Titans on the road in a key AFC matchup.

#10 – 3-2 Chargers
Chargers go to the Dawg pound in AFC contest of playoff contenders.

#11 – 3-1 Bears
The Bears had two weeks to prepare for the Dolphin game.

#12 – 2-2-1 Steelers
Steelers’ light up the Falcons. Go to Cinny in AFC North leadership matchup.

#13 – 3-2 Titans
New HC Mike Vrabel has the Titans playing hard. Host the Ravens in key contest.

#14 – 2-2-1 Vikings
Vikings beat the Eagles. Host the Cards this week.

#15 – 3-2 Dolphins
Dolphins are on a two game losing streak with the tough Bears coming to town.

#16 – 2-2-1 Packers
The Packers have ways of losing any game. Host the 49ers Monday night.

#17 – 2-2 Bucs
Bucs go to Atlanta well rested in key South matchup.

#18 – 2-2 Redskins
Redskins were hammered by the Saints. Host Carolina in an important matchup for both divisions.

#19 – 2-3 Seahawks
Seahawks lost a tough West game with the Rams. Go to London for Raiders contest.

#20 – 2-2-1 Browns
Browns beat the Ravens in OT for a gutty win.  Host Chargers in an important AFC game.

#21- 2-3 Broncos
Broncos host the Rams this Sunday in a game that may define their season.

#22 – 2-3 Texans
Texans’ JJ Watt leads a dominant unit, but they must score more points to beat the top clubs.

#23 – 2-3 Lions
Lions beat the Packers for a huge victory. Get bye week to regroup to prepare for the competitive NFC North.

#24 – 2-3 Cowboys
The Cowboys host the Jaguars in an important matchup to get to .500.

#25 – 1-4 Falcons
Falcons were toasted by the Steelers. Face the Bucs at home this week in a must win situation.

#26 – 1-4 Giants
Giants played well behind a strong Eli performance, but lost to the Panthers. Host the Eagles in a huge NFC East contest.

#27 – 2-3 Jets
Jets’ get the battered Colts at home in a vital game to stay alive in the balanced AFC.

#28 – 2-3 Bills
Bills won second in a row with tough victory over Titans. Travel to Houston with winner getting to .500.

#29 – 1-4 Colts
Colts came up just short vs the Patriots. Face the Jets in a game to get into the playoff hunt.

#30 – 1-4 Cardinals
Cardinals beat the 49ers for their first victory. Rookie QB Josh Rosen gets the call the rest of the way.

#31 – 1-4 49ers
The 49ers lost to the winless Cards. Club relies on young CJ Beathard going forward.

#32 – 1-4 Raiders
Raiders struggled vs the Chargers. Face Seahawks in a London matchup.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

NFL Power Poll – Week 4

Frank Coyle/ Head Scout

NFL Power Poll – Rams and Chiefs Head Conferences
Saints’ QB Drew Brees and Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes Hot Early Starts

Teams of the Week – Browns over Jets, Titans over Jaguars
Upset of the Week – Bills over Vikings 27-6

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Drew Brees – Saints   
  Defense – DE J.J. Watt – Texans

Rookies of Week
QB Josh Allen – Bills
WR Calvin Ridley – Falcons

Games of Week #4 –
Minnesota Vikings (1-1-1) at LA Rams (3-0)
Rams Look to Take NFC leadership in the early season

Miami Dolphins (3-0) at New England Patriots (1-2)
Dolphins must prove contenders with big AFC East contest

Support Hurricane Florence Relief Fund
Go to   www.RedCross.org  to donate money or time
DraftInsiders.com supports all Emergency Relief efforts worldwide along with Breast Cancer for over 25 years.

NFL Ranking /Record /Team

#1 -3-0 Rams
Rams’ are loaded for run at the title.

#2 – 3-0 Chiefs
Chiefs putting up big numbers behind QB Patrick Mahomes. Looking to add impact veterans

#3- 2-1 Eagles
Eagles starting QB Carson Wentz returned for win over Colts.

#4 – 2-1 Jaguars
Jaguars’ were handed by an underrated Titans club.

#5 – 1-1-1 Vikings
Vikings were smoked by the Bills. Look to rebound in huge NFC matchup Thursday night with Rams.

#6 – 1-2 Falcons
Falcons lost a shootout with South rival the Saints last week. Face the Bengals at home this week.

#7 – 2-1 Broncos
Broncos host the Chiefs this Monday night in a tough AFC West matchup.

#8 – 2-1 Bengals
Bengals look to recover from Ravens loss with trip to Atlanta.

#9 – 1-2 Patriots
Pats host the Dolphins in key early AFC East matchup.

#10 – 2-1 Panthers
Panthers beat a good Bengals team last week. Get an early bye this weekend.

#11 – 2-1 Bucs
Bucs came up short vs the Steelers. QB Fitzpatrick still warrants starting here.

#12 – 2-1 Ravens
Ravens jumped on the Broncos in an important AFC matchup. Face tough road game with Steelers Sunday night.

#13 – 3-0 Dolphins
Dolphins have a chance here to take AFC East leadership with a win in New England.

#14 – 2-1 Saints
Saints’ Drew Brees won a shootout with the Falcons. Goes on the road to face the GMen.

#15 – 1-1-1 Packers
The Packers have more problems them visible. Face key home game with Bills.

#16 – 2-1 Bears
The Bears are learning to win the close games.

#17 – 1-1-1 Steelers
Steelers’ beat the Bucs to get into the win column. Host Ravens this week.

#18 – 2-1 Titans
New HC Mike Vrabel has the Titans playing hard with nice early results.

#19 – 2-1 Redskins
Redskins beat the Packers Sunday. Bye week before heavy NFC matchups.

#20 – 1-2 Chargers
Chargers host the 49ers in a vital game to stay with the West leaders.

#21 – 1-2 Seahawks
Seahawks won big game at home vs the Cowboys. Travel to Arizona for divisional matchup.

#22 – 1-2 Giants
Giants played well behind a strong Eli performance. Host the Saints in a huge NFC contest.

#23 – 1-2 Cowboys
The Cowboys host the Lions in an important matchup to get to .500.

#24 – 1-2 Jets
Jets’ travel to Jacksonville in another tough road matchup.

#25 – 1-2 Lions
Lions beat the Patriots Sunday night for huge victory. Travel to Big D for a key NFC contest.

#26 – 1-1-1 Browns
Browns finally win with victory over the Jets. Face the winless Raiders on the coast.

#27 – 1-2 Colts
Colts cane up just short vs the Eagles. Host the winless Texans in tough South matchup.

#28 – 0-3 Texans
Texans’ JJ Watt is back, but they have a lot of problems, especially on offense.

#29 – 1-2 49ers
The 49ers lose QB Jimmy Garoppolo for the season.  Club relies on young CJ Beathard once again.

#30 – 1-2 Bills
Bills jumped the Vikings bones Sunday. Travel to Green Bay to get to .500.

#31 – 0-3 Raiders
Raiders host the Browns in hopes of winning their first game for new HC Jon Gruden.

#32 – 0-3 Cardinals
Cardinals lost tough game to Bears. Change to rookie QB Josh Rosen with Seattle coming to town.
Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 20 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites